Lyon, France Travel Guide

Explore Lyon, France's culinary heart, rich in history, culture, and world-class cuisine, nestled between the Rhône and Saône rivers.

Nestled between two rivers, the Rhône and the Saône, Lyon is a city with a rich tapestry of history and culture. Renowned for its stunning Renaissance architecture in Vieux Lyon, this city invites visitors to stroll through its cobbled streets and hidden passageways known as traboules. These secret pathways, once used by silk weavers, now offer a unique glimpse into the past. But Lyon is not just about history; it is also the gastronomic capital of France. The city boasts a plethora of Michelin-starred restaurants and traditional bouchons, where you can indulge in local delicacies such as coq au vin and quenelles. For food enthusiasts, the Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse market is a must-visit. Named after the legendary chef, this market is a paradise for anyone looking to experience the finest in French cuisine. Beyond food and history, Lyon offers a vibrant cultural scene. The Musée des Beaux-Arts houses an impressive collection of art, while the Festival of Lights in December transforms the city into a magical wonderland. With its blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, Lyon promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Lyon.

Explore the traboules in Vieux Lyon to discover hidden passageways and historical architecture.
Visit Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse for an authentic French market experience.
Try dining at a traditional bouchon for a taste of local Lyonnaise cuisine.
Plan your trip in December to experience the magical Festival of Lights.
Use the city's efficient public transport to explore different neighborhoods easily.

Neighbourhoods in Lyon

Vieux Lyon

Fourvière

Croix-Rousse

Presqu'île

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Lyon

Explore Lyon: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Lyon

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Halle Tony Garnier

Discover the architectural marvel and cultural heartbeat of Lyon at Halle Tony Garnier, a historic concert hall hosting diverse performances and events.

4.3

Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon

Discover centuries of artistic excellence at the Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon, a cultural cornerstone showcasing masterpieces from ancient to modern times.

4.5

Fresque des Lyonnais

Discover the artistic brilliance and historical significance of Fresque des Lyonnais, a captivating mural celebrating Lyon's rich cultural heritage.

4.6

Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-Fourvière

Explore the rich history of Roman civilization at the Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-Fourvière, a must-visit for history enthusiasts in Lyon.

4.6

Best landmarks in Lyon

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Parc de la Tête d'Or

Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Parc de la Tête d'Or, a stunning urban park in the heart of Lyon, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

4.6

Basilica of Notre Dame of Fourvière

Discover the breathtaking Basilica of Notre Dame of Fourvière in Lyon, a stunning architectural marvel with rich history and panoramic views.

4.8

Place Bellecour

Explore Place Bellecour, a vibrant plaza in Lyon, France, rich in history, surrounded by stunning architecture and lively local culture.

4.4

Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste

Explore the breathtaking Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste in Lyon, a stunning Gothic masterpiece and a must-visit tourist attraction.

4.6

Best restaurants in Lyon

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Carmelo

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Carmelo in Lyon, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

4.8

Chez Grand-Mère

Experience authentic French cuisine at Chez Grand-Mère, where tradition meets warmth in the heart of Lyon.

4.4

Les Fils À Maman Lyon

Discover Les Fils À Maman in Lyon: A unique blend of French cuisine and eclectic charm awaits every visitor.

4.4

Brasserie des Brotteaux

Experience authentic French cuisine at Brasserie des Brotteaux in Lyon – where tradition meets culinary excellence.

4.4

Best bars in Lyon

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The Elephant & Castle

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cuisine at The Elephant & Castle, Lyon's premier gastropub and bar.

4.2

MOS - Maker of Stories

Discover MOS - Maker of Stories in Lyon: a lively bar and restaurant where culinary creativity meets vibrant storytelling.

4.2

Funky Monky Lyon - Bar - Restaurant - Tapas

Discover the vibrant flavors of Lyon at Funky Monky, your go-to tapas bar and restaurant for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.2

The Monkey Club Cocktail Bar

Discover Lyon's vibrant nightlife at The Monkey Club Cocktail Bar, where exceptional cocktails and a lively atmosphere await.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Lyon

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Azar Club

Discover the electrifying nightlife of Lyon at Azar Club, where exceptional music and vibrant energy create unforgettable nights.

3.9

Loft Club Lyon

Discover the electrifying atmosphere of Loft Club Lyon, a premier disco club and event venue for unforgettable nightlife experiences.

3.6

Queen club

Discover Lyon's vibrant nightlife at Queen Club, where electrifying music and an upscale atmosphere create unforgettable party experiences.

4.4

La Maison M - Club

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Lyon at La Maison M, a trendy night club perfect for dancing, drinks, and unforgettable memories.

3.9

Best shops in Lyon

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Confluence

Explore Confluence in Lyon – a lively shopping mall combining modern architecture with diverse retail, dining, and entertainment options.

4.2

Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse

Discover the culinary delights of Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, a vibrant market featuring gourmet food and local specialties in the heart of Lyon.

4.5

Westfield La Part-Dieu

Explore Westfield La Part-Dieu in Lyon - a premier shopping destination with an unbeatable variety of stores, dining options, and entertainment experiences.

4.1

Galeries Lafayette

Explore Galeries Lafayette in Lyon, your ultimate shopping destination for fashion, beauty, and lifestyle products, encapsulating the essence of contemporary French style.

4.1

Explore Lyon on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Lyon, mapped for you.

Lyon Essentials

Lyon is well-connected by air, rail, and road. Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) is the primary international airport, offering flights from major cities worldwide. It is located about 25 kilometers east of the city center and can be reached via the Rhône Express tram in approximately 30 minutes. The city is also accessible by train, with Lyon Part-Dieu and Lyon Perrache being the main railway stations. High-speed TGV trains connect Lyon to Paris in about 2 hours. For those traveling by car, Lyon is easily accessible via major highways A6, A7, and A42.
Lyon has an efficient public transportation network operated by TCL, which includes buses, trams, and metro lines. Tickets can be purchased at vending machines in stations or via mobile apps. The city also offers Velo'v, a bike-sharing service, and numerous taxi services. For a more scenic experience, consider taking a boat ride on the Saône and Rhône rivers. Walking is another great way to explore the city's compact and pedestrian-friendly center.
The official currency in Lyon is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, and it's easy to withdraw cash if needed. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. Contactless payment methods, such as Apple Pay and Google Wallet, are also increasingly accepted.
Lyon is generally a safe city for tourists, but it's wise to take standard precautions. Areas such as Guillotière and parts of Vieux Lyon have higher crime rates, particularly at night, so it's best to stay vigilant. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places and avoid isolated areas after dark. Emergency numbers to know are 112 for general emergencies and 17 for police assistance.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Lyon has several hospitals, including Hôpital Edouard Herriot and Centre Hospitalier Lyon-Sud, which provide comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are readily available and can offer over-the-counter medications for minor health issues. It's advisable to carry travel insurance that covers medical emergencies for added security.
Fashion: Do dress stylishly but comfortably. Avoid overly casual attire like flip-flops or athletic wear when dining out. Religion: Do respect religious sites by dressing modestly and keeping noise levels down. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Bonjour' and a handshake. Avoid overly familiar greetings unless invited. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like 'quenelles' and 'coq au vin'. Don't rush meals; dining is an experience in Lyon.
To experience Lyon like a local, visit the Traboules, hidden passageways used by silk workers that are now a unique architectural feature. Enjoy a meal at a 'bouchon,' a traditional Lyonnais restaurant. Take a stroll through the Parc de la Tête d'Or, one of the largest urban parks in France. Engage with locals at markets like Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse to taste fresh, local produce and specialties.

When is the best time to visit Lyon?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Lyon

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Lyon. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBonjour
  [bohn-zhoor]
- GoodbyeAu revoir
  [oh ruh-vwahr]
- YesOui
  [wee]
- NoNon
  [nohn]
- Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît/De rien
  [seel voo pleh / duh ryen]
- Thank youMerci
  [mehr-see]
- Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi/Désolé
  [ehk-skyoo-zay mwah / day-zoh-lay]
- How are you?Ça va?
  [sah vah]
- Fine. And you?Ça va bien. Et vous?
  [sah vah byen / ay voo]
- Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
  [par-lay voo ahn-glay]
- I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [zhe nuh kohm-prahn pah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir la carte, s'il vous plaît
  [zhe voo-dray vwahr lah kart, seel voo pleh]
- I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [zhe nuh mahnj pah duh vyand]
- Cheers!Santé!
  [sahn-tay]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
  [zhe voo-dray pay-ay, seel voo pleh]
- Help!Au secours!
  [oh seh-koor]
- Go away!Allez-vous en!
  [ah-lay voo zahn]
- Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [ah-peh-lay lah poh-lees]
- Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
  [ah-peh-lay uh may-deh-sahn]
- I'm lostJe suis perdu(e)
  [zhe swee pair-doo]
- I'm illJe suis malade
  [zhe swee mah-lahd]
- I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
  [zhe voo-dray zheh-tey...]
- I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
  [zhe ruh-gard zhewst]
- How much is it?Combien ça coûte?
  [kohm-byen sah koot]
- That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [say troh shehr]
- Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
  [poo-vey voo beh-say luh pree]
- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
  [kell uhr ay-teel]
- It's one o'clockIl est une heure
  [eel ay ewn uhr]
- Half past (10)Dix heures et demi
  [dees uhr ay dem-ee]
- MorningMatin
  [mah-tahn]
- AfternoonAprès-midi
  [ah-pray meed-ee]
- EveningSoir
  [swahr]
- YesterdayHier
  [yehr]
- TodayAujourd'hui
  [oh-zhoor-dwee]
- TomorrowDemain
  [duh-mahn]
- 1Un
  [uhn]
- 2Deux
  [deuh]
- 3Trois
  [trwah]
- 4Quatre
  [katr]
- 5Cinq
  [sank]
- 6Six
  [sees]
- 7Sept
  [seht]
- 8Huit
  [weet]
- 9Neuf
  [nuff]
- 10Dix
  [dees]
- Where's a/the...?Où est un/le...?
  [oo ay uh/luh]
- What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
  [kell ay lad-res]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
  [poo-vey voo muh mohn-tray (sir lah kart)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
  [kahn ay luh proh-shan (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ....)
  [uhn bee-yay (poor)]

History of Lyon

Lyon, originally known as Lugdunum, was founded in 43 BCE by Lucius Munatius Plancus, a lieutenant of Julius Caesar. The city quickly became a significant Roman settlement due to its strategic location at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Lugdunum served as the capital of the Gaul provinces and was a hub for commerce, culture, and politics. The city was equipped with impressive Roman structures, including an amphitheater, aqueducts, and baths, traces of which can still be seen today.
During the Middle Ages, Lyon emerged as a major economic center, largely due to its thriving silk industry. The city was granted a monopoly on silk production by King Louis XI in the 15th century. This period also saw the establishment of numerous religious institutions, including the Basilica of Saint-Martin d'Ainay and the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist. Lyon's annual fairs attracted merchants from across Europe, further cementing its status as a commercial hub.
The Renaissance period was marked by significant cultural and intellectual advancements in Lyon. The city became a center for humanist thought and was home to notable scholars and artists. One of Lyon's most significant contributions to this era was its flourishing printing industry. By the 16th century, Lyon had become one of the leading printing centers in Europe, producing numerous important works in various fields, including science, philosophy, and literature.
Lyon played a notable role during the French Revolution. The city initially supported the revolution but later opposed the radical turn taken by the Jacobins, leading to a brutal siege and repression by revolutionary forces in 1793. The 19th century saw Lyon's transformation into an industrial powerhouse, particularly in the silk industry. The invention of the Jacquard loom by Joseph Marie Jacquard revolutionized textile production. The city also witnessed significant social changes, including the rise of the working-class movement.
During World War II, Lyon was a focal point of the French Resistance against Nazi occupation. The city's complex network of traboules, or hidden passageways, facilitated clandestine activities and meetings. Jean Moulin, one of the most prominent figures of the French Resistance, coordinated efforts from Lyon. The city's resistance activities earned it the Croix de la Libération, one of France's highest honors, after the war.
In the latter half of the 20th century, Lyon continued to grow and modernize while preserving its historical heritage. The city's rich history and well-preserved architecture led to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998. Today, Lyon is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, including its famous annual Festival of Lights (Fête des Lumières). The city remains a major center for business, education, and gastronomy, known for its traditional bouchons and culinary innovations.